Sql Server 2005 pricing 1

[ksbigfoot]

I went to a launch of SQL Server 2005 and they gave everyone a copy for free. It even came with the Client License.
My question is, Can I load this version of SQL Server 2005 onto a webserver and connect to it through my webpages legally or is there some sort of catch?
Do I have to purchase some sort of licencing?
If yes, do I have to purchase this every year?

I know very little when it comes to Microsoft licencing, so if someone could clear this up for me, that would be great.
Thanks

 

[mrdenny]

No the copy of SQL that you got at the Launch can't be used as the back end for a web site. You would need to purchase a copy of SQL which is licensed by CPU.

No you do not need to purchase an annual license.

Here is a FAQ I wrote on licensing faq962-5153. It's based on SQL 2000 (because I haven't had time to update it for SQL 2005 yet), but the licensing models are the same. Just the costs for SQL 2005 are slightly higher than for SQL 2000.

The license that you got for free could be used for a win32 app that only a single user connects to. Any additional users than that would require additional CALs. Check my FAQ it covers most of this.

Denny
MCSA (2003) / MCDBA (SQL 2000)

--Anything is possible. All it takes is a little research. (Me)

http://www.mrdenny.com

 

[ksbigfoot]

Thanks Denny,
I thought there must be some sort of catch.
Can I use it just to learn on?
or do I have to buy a license so that I can learn?
Thanks

 

[mrdenny]

They gave you a single CAL so that you can connect to it so that you can learn. However it is standard edition so you have to install it on Windows 2000 Server or Windows 2003 Server.

Denny
MCSA (2003) / MCDBA (SQL 2000)

--Anything is possible. All it takes is a little research. (Me)

http://www.mrdenny.com